Monte Cristo Breakfast Casserole

A Sweet and Savory Breakfast Delight

If you love the classic Monte Cristo sandwich, you’re going to adore this easy, crowd-pleasing Monte Cristo breakfast casserole! It’s a delicious combination of buttery croissants, layers of ham and Swiss cheese, and a rich custard, all baked to golden perfection. Finished with a dusting of powdered sugar and served with raspberry jam, this dish is the perfect balance of sweet and savory.

The Story Behind This Recipe

Monte Cristo sandwiches have always been a favorite of mine. I remember ordering one for the first time at a little diner and being completely hooked by the crispy, cheesy, sweet-and-salty combination. But making individual sandwiches can be time-consuming, so I decided to turn it into a casserole that captures all the flavors of the original with way less effort.

This casserole is perfect for brunch, holidays, or meal prep. You can assemble it the night before and bake it fresh in the morning, making it a hassle-free option for feeding a crowd.

Ingredient Notes

• Croissants – Buttery and flaky, they soak up the custard beautifully.
• Ham – Classic deli ham works great, but you can also use turkey for a twist.
• Swiss cheese – The traditional choice for Monte Cristo, offering a nutty, melty bite.
• Eggs – The base of the custard, making the casserole rich and fluffy.
• Milk & heavy cream – Adds creaminess and helps the casserole bake up perfectly.
• Dijon mustard – Enhances the savory depth of flavor.
• Powdered sugar – A light dusting adds that signature Monte Cristo sweetness.
• Raspberry jam – The perfect dipping sauce for a sweet contrast.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the baking dish – Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Layer the croissants – Tear croissants into large pieces and spread half in the dish.
3. Add ham and cheese – Layer ham slices and Swiss cheese over the croissants.
4. Repeat – Add the remaining croissant pieces, ham, and cheese.
5. Make the custard – Whisk together eggs, milk, heavy cream, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper.
6. Pour over the casserole – Ensure the liquid is evenly distributed so everything soaks in.
7. Let it sit – Allow the casserole to rest for at least 10 minutes (or overnight in the fridge) to absorb flavors.
8. Bake – Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes, then uncover and bake for another 15 minutes until golden and set.
9. Dust with powdered sugar – Sprinkle over the top before serving.
10. Serve with jam – Enjoy warm with raspberry jam for dipping!

Expert Tips for the Best Monte Cristo Casserole

• Use day-old croissants – Slightly stale croissants absorb the custard better without getting too soggy.
• Let it soak – If possible, refrigerate overnight for the best texture and flavor.
• Broil at the end – A quick broil for 2-3 minutes will make the top extra crispy.

Serving Suggestions

• Brunch spread – Serve with fresh fruit, mimosas, and crispy bacon.
• Savory twist – Add a pinch of cayenne to the custard for a little kick.
• Alternative dipping sauces – Try it with maple syrup or honey mustard for a new flavor spin.

Storage and Reheating Tips

• Refrigerator – Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freezer – Wrap individual portions tightly and freeze for up to 2 months.
• Reheating – Warm in a 350°F oven for 10 minutes or microwave for 30 seconds.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this ahead of time? Yes! Assemble the casserole the night before and bake it fresh in the morning.

What other cheeses can I use? Gruyère or cheddar work well if you want to switch things up.

Can I make it without ham? Absolutely! Try turkey, bacon, or even a vegetarian version with sautéed mushrooms and spinach.

Is this casserole sweet or savory? It’s both! The ham and cheese bring the savory notes, while the powdered sugar and jam add sweetness.

Final Thoughts

This Monte Cristo breakfast casserole is the ultimate make-ahead brunch dish—easy, delicious, and packed with flavor. Whether you’re making it for a special occasion or a lazy weekend morning, it’s sure to be a hit. Give it a try and let me know what you think!

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